MBJ_Top50Under40-2015

2015

A product of the

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& $ % M i s s i s s i p p i H ome Corpor a t ion

735 Riverside Drive, Jackson, MS 39202

601.718.4642 phone

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mshomecorp.com

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Mississippi Business Journal

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The 2015 Class Class member

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Mandi Arinder, Rankin County Chamber of Commerce ................................6 Gwendolyn Ballard, CSpire ........................................................................................6 Lilli Evans Bass, Currie Johnson Griffin & Myers, PA ........................................8 Michael Warren Boerner, Wier Boerner Allin PLLC ........................................8 H. Barber Boone, Forman Watkins ..........................................................................9 Quentin A. Brewer, BancorpSouth ........................................................................10 Madeleine Brown, Fisher Brown Bottrell Insurance........................................10 Carter Burns, Mississippi Department of Transportation ................................11 Jennifer M. Childs, Huntington Ingalls Industries ............................................12 Brax K. Clark, Rocking C Truck Lines ......................................................................12 Beau Cole, Forman Watkins........................................................................................13 Jason S. Condon, Cooper's Country Meat Packers ..........................................14 William B. Dickson Jr., Jackson Municipal Airport Authority ......................14 Jeremiah Dumas, Mississippi State University ..................................................15 Marshall J. Eleuterius, Community Bank............................................................16 Brandi Kennedy Garrett, GI Associates & Endoscopy Center....................16 Mason Greene, Hotel & Restaurant Supply ........................................................17 Julie Jarrell Gresham, Huntington Ingalls Industries ......................................18

Event photos, Pages 42-45

ON THE COVER: Photograph of the 2015 Class of Top 50 Under 40 was taken by Deryll Stegall of Stegall Imagery.

Class member

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Stephen Griner, Raymond James............................................................................18 Tonyatta T. Hairston, EnVision Eye Care ............................................................19 Jamie Higdon, TempStaff ........................................................................................20 Kodi D. Hobbs, The Hobbs Group..........................................................................20 Foley Holditch, Thyme ................................................................................................21 Laura P. Johns, Broadband Voice ............................................................................22 Monica Davis Joiner, City of Jackson ..................................................................22 Farrah Graham Kennedy, EastGroup Properties..............................................23 Aaron Lacey, BankPlus ................................................................................................26 Preston H. Lee III, DDS, Lee Family Dentistry ..................................................26 Bridget M. Lowery, BankPlus ................................................................................27 Jason Manley, Mississippi Power ..........................................................................28

for leaders Like no other bank you know. >

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Mississippi Business Journal

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2015 TOP 50 UNDER 40 >> 5

The 2015 Class Class member

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James W. McIngvale, The McIngvale CPA Firm ..............................................28 Mauricka DeVon McKenzie Sr., Neel-Schaffer, Inc. ......................................29 Shane McLendon, Home Remedies LLC..............................................................30 Hosea L. Minnieweather Jr., Norvartis Pharmaceuticals............................30 Erica Moore, Pearl River Resort ................................................................................31 Kimberly Nastasi, Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce ..................................32 Marc Petro, Community Bank ..................................................................................32 Marlena Powell Pickering, Baker Donelson ......................................................33 Alex Purvis, Bradley Arant ........................................................................................34 Nicki Johnson Reeves, Mississippi Department of Education ..................34 Matthew Edward Renick, Blacklidge Emulsions ............................................36 Justin Rhodes, Mississippi Baptist Health Systems ......................................36 Harry Dewitt Ruffin III, Trustmark ......................................................................37 Scott Spivey, Mississippi Home Corporation ............................................24-25 Abby Thompson, Camgian Microsystems ..........................................................37 Bridget Young Townsend, City of Jackson ......................................................38 Trent Townsend, Next Step Group ........................................................................38 Justin M. Turner, TurnerCare, LLC ..........................................................................39

Class member

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Alison Tyler, HORNE CPAs ........................................................................................39 Nathan Wells, Chief of Staff, Rep. Philip Gunn..................................................40 Johannah B. Williams, Hinds Community College ........................................40

MBJ STAFF ALAN TURNER Publisher alan.turner@msbusiness.com (601) 364-1021 ROSS REILY Editor ross.reily@msbusiness.com (601) 364-1018 JACK WEATHERLY Staff Writer wally.northway@msbusiness.com (601) 364-1016 FRANK BROWN Staff Writer/Special Projects frank.brown@msbusiness.com (601) 364-1022 TED CARTER Staff Writer ted.carter@msbusiness.com (601) 364-1017

MELISSA KILLINGSWORTH Account Executive melissa.harrison@msbusiness.com (601) 364-1030 VIRGINIA HODGES Account Executive virginia.hodges@msbusiness.com (601) 364-1012 TACY RAYBURN Production Manager tacy.rayburn@msbusiness.com (601) 364-1019 CHARINA RHODES Administrative Assistant charina.rhodes@msbusiness.com (601) 364-1044 MARCIA KELLY-THOMPSON, Business Assistant marcia.kelly@msbusiness.com (601) 364-1044 Subscription Services (800) 451-9998

TAMI JONES Advertising Director tami.jones@msbusiness.com (601) 364-1011

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Mandi Arinder Rankin County Chamber of Commerce

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LOWOOD NATIVE Mandi Arinder began serving as Executive Director of the Rankin County Chamber of Commerce in 2011 after being promoted from Events Coordinator. As Executive Director, she implemented several initiatives within the Chamber, including Project Impact for at-risk Rankin County youth.

Additionally, Arinder revamped the organization with a new logo, marketing strategy and building renovation, and established the Rankin GlowRun, a

nighttime 5K race that nets over $25,000 for the Chamber’s Leadership Programs.

Arinder, who never met a stranger, serves on a number of boards, including the Hinds Community College Advisory Board, Rankin County Extension Service and Crossgates River Oaks.

The mother of two sons considers rearing her children and serving as their role model as her most significant accomplishment.

Arinder enjoys cooking and interior design projects in her spare time.

Gwendolyne Ballard C Spire

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S SOCIAL MEDIA Advocate for C Spire, Gwendolyne Ballard is well aware that social media has become an integral part of marketing and brand man-

agement.

At C Spire, the McComb native has taken traditional marketing procedures and tailored them to the company’s social media audience. In addition to Facebook, Ballard also manages content on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and LinkedIn. Prior to joining C Spire, Ballard

worked for Simon Property Group as Guest Services Manager at Northpark Mall, where she oversaw annual gift card sales and a mall children’s club.

A Millsaps College graduate, Ballard received her Master’s in Public Relations and Corporate Communication from Mississippi College. She believes the best corporate leaders are those who do not just dictate but actually demonstrate the qualities that they expect.

In her leisure hours, Ballard enjoys spending time with her family and reading.

Mississippi Business Journal

Congratulations

to

Madeleine Brown from your husband, your family and coworkers on Top 50 Under 40 selection.

Yazoo City Dental Group 1615 Easy Street Yazoo City, MS 39194

662-746-1432

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Lilli Evans Bass Currie Johnson Griffen & Myers

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S A YOUNG attorney, Lilli Bass has learned that perseverance and flexibility play a large role in both her personal and professional life. Bass practices law with Jackson law firm Currie Johnson Griffen & Myers, with her specific practice areas including employment law, government and administrative law, and professional liability.

The Jackson native also serves as Municipal Court Judge for the City of Yazoo City. Bass graduated summa cum

laude from Tougaloo College before attending law school at the University of Mississippi, where she graduated cum laude in 2008.

While in law school, Bass participated in both national and international mediation, negotiation, and trial competitions, and received American Jurisprudence Awards for Alternative Dispute Resolution and Pretrial Practice.

An active member of Saint Richard Catholic Church, Bass enjoys reading, playing tennis and cooking in her spare time.

Michael Warren Boerner Wier Boerner Allin, PLLC

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ICHAEL BOERNER is Managing Principal for Jackson architecture firm Wier Boerner Allin, PLLC. After a brief career in marketing, the Brookhaven native returned to college to obtain his Bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree in Architecture at Mississippi State University.

Talented in the design process, Boerner draws from his varied work experience, travel opportunities and artistic focus.

Some of his more notable projects include the design of Babalu restaurant, renovations to the Coliseum and Trade Mart facilities, and the conceptual master plan of MSUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dudy Noble Field.

Boerner was appointed to the Mississipppi State Board of Architecture by former Gov. Haley Barbour and then reappointed by Gov. Phil Bryant in 2012.

Additionally, he serves on the 1 percent Sales Tax Commission for the City of Jackson.

Boerner enjoys tennis, snow skiing, hunting and family time.

Mississippi Business Journal

Mississippi Business Journal

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H. Barber Boone Forman Watkins

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PARTNER IN Jackson law firm Forman Watkins, H. Barber Boone is wellversed in complex commercial litigation involving high profile corporate enti-

ties.

But the Jackson native also enjoys his life away from the job. Last fall, Boone and his pre-school sons built a custom treehouse in their backyard, complete with a slide, rock climbing wall and firemanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pole.

Additionally, he is active in Jacksonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fondren district, helping his neighbor-

hood transition to a new website during his service as president of the Fondren Neighborhood Association Board.

At Forman Watkins, Boone is a member of several committees, including the Technology, Recruiting and Diversity committees.

Prior to graduating sum cum laude from the University of Mississippi School of Law, Boone received a Bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in Mechanical Engineering from Vanderbilt University.

An avid runner, Boone also enjoys coaching his sonsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; soccer teams in his off time.

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www.FormanWatkins.com JACKSON

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PHILADELPHIA

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Quentin A. Brewer BancorpSouth

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UENTIN BREWER appreciates the value of small town living. After all, Brewer enjoyed an idyllic childhood growing up in Clinton, and has chosen to live in Oxford because of the cities’ similar qualities of excellent schools and a strong sense of community.

Currently, he serves as First VicePresident of premier banking for BancorpSouth’s Oxford branch.

In addition to servicing his clients, Brewer also serves on various committees for the bank while leading the

management team on decisions involving marketing, loan policies and procedures.

A graduate of the University of Mississippi, Brewer is attending the Graduate School of Banking at LSU and is expected to graduate in 2016.

Active in his community, he is a member of the Oxford Rotary Club and Oxford Chamber of Commerce, and serves on the advisory board of the Boys and Girls Club.

When he’s not working, Brewer relishes time spent with his children and traveling.

Madeleine Brown Fisher Brown Bottrell Insurance

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ORKING tirelessly to provide her clients with the best insurance services possible, Madeleine Brown serves as a Vice President of Fisher Brown Bottrell Insurance in Jackson.

As an employee benefits consultant, Brown is responsible for business development and portfolio growth among larger employers.

Brown was a recipient of the National Association of Health Underwriters prestigious Soaring Eagle award in 2013, 2014 and 2015. She is a 2015 Million Dollar Round Table Top of the Table qualifying member, recognized as one of

the most prestigious honors in the industry.

She has served on the Jackson Association of Health Underwriters board since 2012. She served as a Mississippi Association of Health Underwriters board member and was MAHU Membership Chair in 20122014.

She currently serves as the Chair for Mississippi HUPAC — the national Health Underwriters political action committee.

Brown is an active member of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Madison. In her spare time Brown enjoys spending time with her family, running, traveling, and mountaineering.

Mississippi Business Journal

TOP 10 FINALIST

Mississippi Business Journal

www.msbusiness.com

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Carter Burns Mississippi Department of Transportation

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HEN HE’S NOT performing his duties as an attorney in the Right of Way Division with the Mississippi Department of Transportation, Carter Burns finds solace in hot air balloons.

For the past 25 years, the Natchez native has volunteered his time as a crew member for the Great Mississippi River Balloon Race.

At MDOT, Burns manages the agency’s eminent domain cases, provides legal advice to his division and supervises contract attorneys working

active litigation.

Prior to joining MDOT, Burns served as law clerk to Chief Magistrate Judge John Roper of the Southern District of Mississippi for one year.

A member of the Mississippi and Louisiana Bar Associations, he also serves as a board member for the Mississippi Heritage Trust and the Lowry House restoration project.

Burns received his law degree from the University of Mississippi School of Law. In his spare time, Burns enjoys playing tennis and attending Ole Miss sporting events.

Congratulations Ingalls Shipbuilding congratulates Julie Gresham and Jennifer Childs on having been named to the Mississippi Business Journal’s Top 50 under 40 class of 2015.

Julie Jarrell Gresham

Jennifer Childs

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Jennifer M. Childs Huntington Ingalls Industries

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SKED TO characterize herself in one word, Jennifer Marie Childs admits that word would be “passionate.”

The ship design manager of the National Security Cutter program with Huntington Ingalls Industries, Childs passionately believes the product she helps produce supports the nation’s security and viability while also bringing resources and economic development to the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

A former Navy officer with a nuclear

subspecialty, the Indiana native proudly served onboard two ships, and currently is a member of the U.S. Navy Reserve, holding the rank of Lieutenant Commander.

Active in her community, Childs volunteers for the STEM organization and the Mississippi Gulf Coast Honor Flight, serving as a guardian for two World War II veterans on one of the group’s excursions.

Currently enrolled in yoga teacher training, Childs also enjoys kayaking, cycling, and reading naval history and spy novels in her leisure time.

Brax K. Clark Rocking C Truck Lines

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RAX CLARK is vice-president of Rocking C Truck Lines, Inc., a long-haul trucking company based in Gulfport and a part of his family’s business that boasts 80 employees and nearly 4,000 customers nationwide.

He also serves as a managing partner and vice president of Rocking C Truck & Trailer, Inc. a full line parts and service dealer representing Mack Trucks, Inc., International Truck & Engine, and Autocar trucks.

Clark learned the value of hard work and achieving goals early in life when his father required him to learn to reach out and work outside the family busi-

ness and achieving company goals while learning to work for others. Under his leadership within the Rocking C Umbrella the Mississippi State graduate has helped quadruple revenues and expand services and customer growth.

Clark said he takes pride in delivering the brand of hard work and customer service that his father started years ago.

In 2007, Clark launched Bin 605 Fine Wine & Spirits, a retail liquor store he started with the help of friends and colleagues. He credits his father for making the biggest impact in his career.

Clark and his wife are parents of twins, and are members of St. James Catholic Church in Gulfport. He enjoys family time outdoors and yard work.

Mississippi Business Journal

Mississippi Business Journal

www.msbusiness.com

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Edderek â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Beauâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Cole Forman Watkins

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EGALLY, HIS name is Edderek but his family and colleagues know him best as Beau.

Beau Cole is a partner in the Jackson law office of Forman Watkins. A member of the firmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Litigation and Business division, Cole focuses his practice on commercial litigation, product liability, and environmental and insurance matters.

He has served as first chair in over 20 civil and criminal jury trials. In 2010 and 2014, Cole was appointed to the

Mississippi Supreme Courtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;Access to Justiceâ&#x20AC;? Commission.

A University of Southern Mississippi graduate, the Jackson native received his law degree from the Mississippi College School of Law in 2001.

Cole is an advisory board member for the Mississippi Center for Legal Services, and a member of 100 Black Men of Jackson and the Defense Research Institute.

In his spare time, Cole enjoys hunting, hiking and spending time with his family.

Congratulations Erica!

The Pearl River Resort family would like to congratulate Erica Clemons Moore, Director of Public Relations, Internal Communication, and Special Projects, for being listed among Mississippi Business Journalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Top 50 Under 40. We are very proud that Erica was one of the deserving young professionals chosen to receive this honor.

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Jason S. Condon Cooper’s Country Meat Packers

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ROWING UP IN a mobile home with limited financial resources, Jason Condon nurtured dreams of going to college and becoming an accountant

one day.

Mission accomplished and then some, as Condon grew to earn his college degree and became the Chief Financial Officer of Cooper’s Country Meat Packers in Florence at the age of 31. Before joining Cooper’s, the Mississippi Delta native spent eight years learning all aspects of public

accounting by working for multiple CPA firms.

Beginning his career in bookkeeping, he finally made it to the top as a senior tax manager before being named Cooper’s CFO in 2011.

Condon lists marrying his high school sweetheart Toni and raising their two children as his most significant personal accomplishment.

A boating enthusiast, Condon enjoys spending quality time on the Barnett Reservoir with his family, bowling, playing golf, and following college football in the fall.

William B. Dickson Jr. Jackson Municipal Airport Authority

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ORMER UNITED STATES Secret Service Special Agent Will Dickson is the Security Manager for Jackson Municipal Airport Authority.

Serving as the principal security adviser to the CEO and Chief Operating Officer, Dickson is responsible for mitigating all security threats against the Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport and Hawkins Field.

With over 15 years specialized knowledge and experience in the security field, Dickson has served in his present

role since March 2013.

Before joining the airport authority, Dickson was assigned to the Secret Service detail that provides security to former President Jimmy Carter.

In 2003, he was selected as Outstanding Law Enforcement Officer of the Year for the Southern District of Florida. Additionally, Dickson received the 2010 St. Andrew’s Episcopal School Young Alumnus of the Year award.

Dickson previously worked for the Mississippi Gaming Commission’s Enforcement Division.

Mississippi Business Journal

Mississippi Business Journal

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Jeremiah Dumas Mississippi State University

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S DIRECTOR OF Parking, Transit & Sustainability at Mississippi State University. Jeremiah Dumas literally keeps things moving on the Starkville campus.

In addition to managing parking registration, enforcement, charter shuttle fleet and the Bully-Bike program, the Prentiss native also coordinates all campus sustainability efforts. Additionally, Dumas directs the new StarkvilleMississippi State Area Rapid Transit (SMART) system that serves residents

and the business community.

A former Bulldogs football player, Dumas earned both his undergraduate and Master’s degrees in Landscape Architecture at MSU. Active in the community, he created and chairs the Starkville Community Market, a growing endeavor of volunteers, vendors, musicians and artisans.

Mississippi Magazine has recognized the Market as the state’s best farmer’s market.

In his leisure time, Dumas enjoys hunting, fishing, playing golf and spending time with his family.

CONGRATULATIONS TO

Congratulates

Marc Petro of Community Bank

AARON LACEY ON BEING NAMED

TOP50 UNDER40

As a Vice President and Cash Management Relationship Services Sales Representative at BankPlus, Aaron is one of our finest. So we’re proud, but not surprised, that he has been chosen for this honor. Aaron’s service to the community has been recognized by many. We take our hats off to Aaron.

BankPlus.net

For being named to the Top 10 of

Mississippi’s Business Journal’s Top 50 Under 40 A much deserved honor

© Copyright 2015 BankPlus.

Member FDIC.

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Marshall J. Eleuterius Community Bank

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ARSHALL Eleuterius is all about family.

Not a week goes by that the Community Bank executive vice president doesn’t bring a change of clothes to the office so he can coach his children’s football or soccer teams.

Colleagues say Eleuterius often shares his kids athletic exploits when prompted, always producing a smile on his face.

Eleuterius has over 10 years of experience in the commercial lending industry.

A native of Biloxi, he is a graduate of

William Carey College, the Mississippi School of Banking and the Graduate School of Banking at Louisiana State University.

Active in the business community, Eleuterius is treasurer for Biloxi Main Street and sits on the board of directors for the Biloxi Community Development Corporation.

He is also a member of the Biloxi Businessmens Club, the Biloxi Bay Chamber of Commerce and the Biloxi Kiwanis Club.

Eleuterius and his wife reside in Biloxi with their son and daughter.

Brandi Kennedy Garrett GI Associates & Endoscopy Center

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RANDI GARRETT is the Director of Human Resources for GI Associates & Endoscopy Center in Jackson. A former executive recruiter, Garrett oversees all day-to-day operations of the clinic, including recruiting, interviews, job offers and credentialing.

Prior to joining GI Associates, she worked for HT Staffing Professional in Austin, Texas.

A Jackson native, Garrett grew up in the Hattiesburg area and earned her

Bachelor’s degree from Mississippi State University. Garrett, a past co-chair for Big Brothers Big Sisters, is active with the Society for Human Resource Management as the certification director for Mississippi, allowing her to make a valuable contributions to the HR community. Additionally, Garrett has been active as a volunteer fundraiser with the March of Dimes, and mentors students enrolled in MSU’s HR program.

Married with one son, Garrett enjoys traveling and attending sporting events with her family.

Mississippi Business Journal

Mississippi Business Journal

www.msbusiness.com

Mason Greene Hotel & Restaurant Supply

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OR MASON GREENE, being Director of Operations for Meridian-based Hotel & Restaurant Supply is a dream come true. But the former Mississippi State University tennis player hopes one day to ascend to the role of president in his family’s business.

At H & R, Greene maintains involvement with every area of the company and is responsible for the oversight of six locations.

In 2014, the Meridian native was selected by Foodservice Equipment

Reports magazine for the publication’s Young Lion Award.

Prior to joining the company, Greene served as a staff member with Campus Crusade for Christ at the University of Alabama after completing his MBA at State.

As a high school tennis player, Greene won a Mississippi 5A state championship in singles and achieved a No. 1 ranking in both singles and doubles.

Additionally, he led MSU to 3 Top 10 national team rankings.

Greene enjoys spending his leisure time with his wife and daughter.

Baptist congratulates

Justin Rhodes Director of Clinic Operations for being selected as one of Mississippi’s

Top 50 Under 40 Thank you for your leadership and service to our organization and the community.

www.mbhs.org 601-948-6262

2015 TOP 50 UNDER 40 >> 17

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Julie Jarrell Gresham Huntington Ingalls Industries

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ULIE JARRELL GRESHAM works as Senior Counsel and Director of Compliance with Huntington Ingalls Industries.

Before joining the Pascagoula company, Gresham was a partner in the Brunini law firmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gulf Coast office.

At Brunini, she concentrated her practice on litigation matters, including complex commercial litigation, contract disputes, personal injury and premises liability lawsuits.

Gresham also works with

Communication Counsel of America, Inc. as a consultant. Through her work with CCA, she has extensive experience in crisis communication, working closely with companies to develop crisis management plans and prepare witnesses for congressional hearings.

Active in her community, Gresham currently serves on the board of directors for the Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce and University of Southern Mississippi Foundation.

She also is a member of the American Red Cross Board of Directors.

Stephen Griner Raymond James

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HEN OTHERS talk, Stephen Griner listens. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s because he believes listening is the most critical aspect of being a

financial adviser.

Griner is Vice-President of Investments for the Jackson office of Raymond James. He works with over 1,000 clients, providing investment advice to individual investors, businesses, not-for profits and endowments.

In 2012, Griner was appointed to the Raymond James National Retirement

Plan Advisory Council.

A Hattiesburg native, Griner graduated magna cum laude and earned his MBA from the University of Mississippi.

He worked for Merrill Lynch before joining Raymond James in 2009.

An active member of Grace Chapel Presbyterian Church of Madison, Griner also is a certified crossfit instructor and a part-owner in Crossfit 601.

Griner, a dedicated student of the drums, enjoys playing golf, reading and attending Ole Miss Rebels football games in his leisure time.

Mississippi Business Journal

TOP 10 FINALIST

Mississippi Business Journal

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Tonyatta T. Hairston EnVision Eye Care

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HEN SHE graduated from Southern College of Optometry, Dr. Tonyatta Hairston never imagined her career would lead her to a place where she would have a business that helps so many in the Jackson metropolitan area and beyond.

Today, as owner of EnVision Eye Care in Jackson, Hairston employs 20 people and serves thousands of clients each year. With those accomplishments, it’s no surprise that Hairston was named

the 2011 Helen St. Clair Young “Optometrist of the Year,” an award which recognizes Mississippi eye doctors who have made significant contributions to eye health.

Currently, the Tougaloo College graduate serves on the Leadership Greater Jackson Board of Directors and will serve as chairperson for the 2015-2016 class.

A member of the Mississippi Business Journal’s Top 50 Women in Business Class of 2012, Hairston enjoys playing tennis, traveling and interior design projects.

Leadership Greater Jackson would like to congratulate the following for being selected for MS Business Journal’s 2015 Top 50 Business Leaders Under 40!

Tonyatta Hairston Kodi Hobbs Laura Johns Monica Joiner Mauricka McKenzie Marlena Pickering Alex Purvis Johannah Williams

So Proud of You!

Congratulations Johannah Williams

Mississippi Business Journal’s Top 40 Under 40

1.800.HINDSCC www.hindscc.edu Hinds Community College offers equal education and employment opportunities and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, disability or veteran status in its programs and activities. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Dr. Debra Mays-Jackson, Vice President for the Utica and Vicksburg-Warren Campuses and Administrative Services, 34175 Hwy. 18, Utica, MS 39175; 601.885.7002.

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Jamie Higdon

TOP 10 FINALIST

TempStaff

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HETHER SHE’S attending a chamber of commerce meeting, monitoring departmental budgets or editing TempStaff’s bi-monthly magazine, Jamie Higdon does her job with gusto.

As the staffing company’s VicePresident of Operations, Higdon enjoys the challenges presented to her, and the opportunity to provide meaningful work relationships to employees and clients.

Working for her mother’s TempStaff business throughout high school and

college, it afforded the Mississippi College graduate to chance to balance school work with a part-time job.

Proud to call Mississippi home, Higdon is passionate about giving back to her state and its people. A board member of Big Brothers Big Sisters, she also serves as PTO president for Steen’s Creek Elementary School in Florence.

Higdon and her family are active members of First Baptist Church of Richland.

In her spare time, Higdon enjoys traveling and supporting Mississippi State football.

Kodi D. Hobbs The Hobbs Group

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SIDE FROM HIS family, investing in the community is priority one for Kodi Hobbs. The owner of the ALFA Insurance-affiliated The Hobbs Group, Hobbs volunteers many hours to mentoring kids at Jackson Lanier High School, his alma mater.

Additionally, the Jackson native serves on the executive board of 100 Black Men, a non-profit dedicated to helping the underserved of Jackson.

Once a mentee of 100 Black Men as a child, Hobbs became the first-ever

Mississippi Business Journal

mentee to become a member of the organization in 2011.

Prior to forming the Hobbs Group, Hobbs worked as a Claims Generalist and Fire Investigator for Progressive Insurance.

He also served his country for five years as a member of the U.S. Navy.

In 2012, the Southern Illinois University graduate was named ALFA Insurance “Mississippi Agent of the Year,” in addition to be awarded Gold and Mega Star designations.

In his spare time, Hobbs enjoys spending time with family.

Mississippi Business Journal

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Foley Holditch Thyme

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USINESS IS A family affair for Foley Holditch, who works as Vice President of Finance for three different small businesses. Her father owns Bell Building Supply and Simply Home, while Holditch and her mother operate Thyme, a kitchen accessories and upscale tabletop décor business housed in a portion of her dad’s hardware store.

Holditch has watched Thyme expand its brand over the years to carry Subzero Wolf, Asko products and Chalk Paint by

Anne Sloan. And she’s found success, winning the an “M Award” from Mississippi Magazine in 2013 and 2014 for “Best Kitchen Shop.”

An Amory native, Holditch worked for accounting firm KPMG in Memphis as a Senior Accountant before returning to the Golden Triangle in 2011.

Her father and mother, who instilled a strong work ethic, serve as her role models.

Married with two daughters, Holditch enjoys running, reading and traveling in her spare time.

Since 1953

Hotel & Restaurant Supply proudly congratulates

CONGRATULATIONS TO

BRIDGET LOWERY ON BEING NAMED

TOP50 UNDER40

As a Vice President and loan officer at BankPlus, Bridget is one of our finest. So we’re proud, but not surprised, that she has been chosen for this honor. Bridget’s service to the community has been recognized by many. We take our hats off to Bridget.

Mason Greene

BankPlus.net

of our company on being selected

2015 Top 50 Under 40 4251 Industrial Drive • Jackson, MS 39209 (601) 352-2004 • www.hnrsupply.com Meridian, MS • Jackson, MS • Gulfport, MS • Tuscaloosa, AL • Memphis, TN • Nashville, TN

© Copyright 2015 BankPlus.

Member FDIC.

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Laura P. Johns Broadband Voice

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F SOMEONE WERE to ask, Laura Johns just might say she’s as comfortable on a deer stand as she is in the boardroom. An avid hunter and fisherwoman, Johns is Vice-President of Marketing and Corporate Development for Broadband Voice.

She is responsible for all marketing strategy and programs that create recognition for the Jackson-based telecommunications company.

Before joining Broadband Voice, the Jackson native worked as Global

Marketing Manager for Itron.

One of Johns’ goals in the coming years is to be remembered as a trailblazer for helping promote the greatest technology solutions Mississippi has to offer.

Johns earned her Master’s degree from the University of Alabama after graduating from Mississippi College.

An active member of Fondren Church, she also serves as a member on the Laguna Tribe Alumni board. In her leisure hours, Johns enjoys running and reading.

Monica Davis Joiner City of Jackson

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S LEAD COUNSEL for the City of Jackson, Monica Joiner is legal adviser and attorney. With her appointment by Mayor Tony Yarber in 2014, she became the youngest seated city attorney in the state.

A native of Jackson, Joiner received her law degree from Loyola University of New Orleans School of Law after earning a Bachelor’s degree from Tougaloo College.

In 2013, she completed work on her

Master’s degree in Public Administration at Belhaven University.

Active in the community, Joiner is a member of the Coleman Alexander Prosser Foundation, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, and is an age group sponsor for Jack & Jill of Jackson.

The mother of Morgan and Shawn II, Joiner’s dedication to the City of Jackson is second only to her commitment to her children.

When she has time, Joiner enjoys her favorite hobbies, including painting, interior decorating and party planning.

Mississippi Business Journal

Mississippi Business Journal

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Farrah Graham Kennedy

TOP 10 FINALIST

EastGroup Properties

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HEN SHE’S not performing as vice president and director of internal audit with EastGroup Properties, Farrah Kennedy finds relaxation updating her lifestyle blog. Though it serves primarily as her journal, the Stringer resident also blogs about travel, cooking and current events. At EastGroup, Kennedy oversees the company’s Sarbanes Oxley Act Section 404 compliance and reports directly to the audit committee.

In 2010, she became the youngest

person in the company’s history to be promoted to vice president.

Prior to joining EastGroup, she worked as an auditor with KPMG. Kennedy holds an MPA from the University of Southern Mississippi, where she served on USM’s Business Student Advisory Council.

An active supporter of Madison Ridgeland Academy, she volunteers as a room mother and was previously a K4 navigator at the school.

In Kennedy’s spare time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two sons.

We congratulate Mauricka a McKenzie, MccK Ken nzie, PE PE

www.neel-schaffer.com

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Business

Scott Spivey and his wife, Holly, and his wire fox terrier, Buster. They have two children, Riley and William.

TOP 10 FINALISTS Quentin A. Brewer

Julie Jarrell Gresham

Jamie Higdon

Farrah Graham Kennedy

Bridget M. Lowery

BancorpSouth

Huntington Ingalls Industries

Tempstaff

EastGroup Properties

BankPlus

Mississippi Business Journal

2015 TOP 50 UNDER 40 >> 25

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Person of the Year Scott Spivey Mississippi Home Corporation

A

ssssssxxxxxx / The Mississippi Business Journal

CCORDING TO Scott Spivey, communication might be the most vital component in the business world. As Executive Director for the Mississippi Home Corporation, Spivey must advocate effectively for the MHC and its programs on the state and federal level.

A Kentucky native, Spivey oversees the agency’s day-to-day operations and administers all of the MHC’s housing programs, including the Mortgage Revenue Bond program.

Before joining MHC in 1998, Spivey served as a sales associate with Indian Cycle Fitness and Outdoor. He is active in multiple professional organizations, including the National Council of State Housing Agencies and the Mississippi Association of Affordable Housing Providers.

Spivey received his Master’s degree in English from Mississippi College, where he graduated summa cum laude.

In his spare time, Spivey relishes brewing his own beer and attending rock crawling events around the nation.

Deryll Stegall / Stegall Imagery

Scott Spivey displays the Top 50 Under 40 Business Person of the Year award he received May 11 at a luncheon at the Hilton on County Line Road in Jackson.

Marc Petro

Matthew Edward Renick

Justin Rhodes

Trent Townsend

Alison Tyler

Community Bank

Blacklidge Emulsions

Mississippi Baptist Health Systems

Next Step Group

HORNE LLP

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Robert Aaron Lacey BankPlus

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ORKING IN some capacity since he was a teenager, Robert Aaron Lacey takes pride that he was able to obtain the title of Assistant Vice President with BankPlus by the age of 26.

Today, after a recent promotion to Vice President and Cash Management Officer, he is responsible for developing new treasury business and expanding existing business relationships.

Though based in Ridgeland, Lacey’s sales territory extends from Desoto County to the Gulf Coast.

Currently enrolled in the LSU

Graduate School of Banking, he earned two degrees at Mississippi College before graduating from the Mississippi School of Banking at the University of Mississippi.

Lacey is active with several professional organizations, including Madison County Zip39, Madison County Chamber, American Bankers Association and the FBI Citizens Academy.

A youth pastor with Apostolic Lighthouse Church, the Louisiana native and his wife teach a College and Career Class.

Lacey enjoys playing golf in his spare time.

Preston H. Lee III Lee Family Dentistry

A

THIRD-GENERATION native of the Mississippi Delta, Preston Lee believes corporate citizenry is a duty. The founder of Lee Family Dentistry in Oxford, Lee performs charity dental work for the Oxford Medical Ministry Clinic, Love Packs, Give Kids a Smile and local churches.

While a member on the Oxford Medical Ministry board, Lee served as fund-raising co-chair.

Over the years, Lee Family Dentistry has earned several “Best of Oxford”

Awards, including “Best Dentist” and Best Dental Office.”

Additionally, the Greenville-born Lee provides three college scholarships for graduating seniors in the counties he serves.

Prior to completing his doctorate and residency, Lee worked as a private banker for Trust One Bank in Germantown, Tenn.

He and his wife, a converted Alabama fan, attend most every Ole Miss sporting event on campus.

In his leisure time, Lee enjoys hunting, boating and playing golf.

Mississippi Business Journal

Mississippi Business Journal

www.msbusiness.com

Bridget M. Lowery

2015 TOP 50 UNDER 40 >> 27

TOP 10 FINALIST

BankPlus

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HEN IT COMES to volunteer work, Bridget Lowery believes she should find a way to say “yes” when asked to help. That philosophy has led Lowery to become involved in several charitable causes, including her service as president of the Friends of Mississippi State Hospital.

Lowery, a BankPlus Vice-President in Brandon, also is an active member of First Baptist Church of Brandon, where she sings in the Adult Choir and serves

as a summer camp counselor.

At BankPlus, Lowery manages consumer and commercial loan portfolios, and supervises the branch personnel.

One of the most favorite aspects of her job is teaching credit classes in the community.

Currently enrolled at LSU’s Graduate School of Banking after completing the Mississippi School of Banking at the University of Mississippi, Lowery formerly worked for Trustmark Bank and AmSouth Bank.

A voracious reader, Lowery also enjoys outdoor activities with her family.

PLLC

Attorney Lilli Evans Bass

Congratulations Stephen Griner

for being selected as one of Mississippi's

for being named one of Mississippi Business Journal’s

PLLC

Attorneys at Law P.O. Box 1167 | Jackson, MS 39215 | oevanslaw@gmail.com Office: (601)957-7685 | Cell: (601) 842-5105

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Jason Manley Southern Company/Georgia Power

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ROWING UP, Jason Manley moved with his family to five different towns. Learning how to meet new people and build relationships during his childhood have served him well as a Division Manager with Mississippi Power, a subsidiary of Southern Company.

At Mississippi Power, Manley was responsible for all external and customer service functions for the Coast Division.

A native of Snellville, Ga., Manley earned his Bachelor’s in Agricultural

Engineering from the University of Georgia.

Since moving to the Mississippi Gulf Coast three years ago, Manley invested in his community by serving as sponsor for the division’s Community Connections chapter, which performs various service projects. A member of the Gulfport Business Club, Manley enjoys coaching youth baseball and softball in his off time.

He recently returned to Georgia Power as a Region Vice President.

James W. McIngvale McIngvale CPA Firm

A

S OWNER OF McIngvale CPA Firm in Southaven, James McIngvale knows the value of individual sacrifice within a team framework. After all, the former University of Alabama track and cross country athlete competed in the Southeastern Conference for the Crimson Tide and garnered SEC AllAcademic honors during his four years.

Committed to the small firm concept, McIngvale has led his accounting firm to unprecedented heights in profitabili-

ty. Voted “Best Accounting Firm” in 2012 by readers of the Desoto TimesTribune, McIngvale CPA Firm also boasts a 98 percent client retention rate and 20 percent annual growth in revenues for the past three years.

A member of numerous CPA professional organizations, the Hernando native also serves as a board advisor with the Byhalia Chamber of Commerce.

Married with two young sons, McIngvale is a water sports enthusiast and enjoys fishing in his spare time.

Mississippi Business Journal

Mississippi Business Journal

2015 TOP 50 UNDER 40 >> 29

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Mauricka DeVon McKenzie Neel-Schaffer

D

URING HIS decade-long tenure with Jackson-based engineering firm NeelSchaffer, Mauricka McKenzie has worn a variety of engineering hats.

The Meridian native has served as a design engineer, project manager and program coordinator.

Before joining the firm, McKenzie worked for Aquaterra Engineering and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as an intern.

McKenzie says his most significant

professional accomplishment was overseeing the three-year, $6 million Baptist Hospital water project in Jackson, helping save the hospital over $200,000 in water charges annually.

McKenzie completed work on his Master’s in Civil Engineering at LSU. In 2013, he graduated from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, earning his Master of Divinity degree.

McKenzie serves as a board member with Big Brothers Big Sisters.

In his leisure time, he enjoys fishing and woodworking projects.

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From all of your family. Job well done!

Evan, Brett, Todd, Bonnie & Janice

30 << 2015 TOP 50 UNDER 40

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Shane McLendon Home Remedies, LLC

S

HANE MCCLENDON is the owner of Home Remedies, LLC. A Certified Professional Remodeler with the Mississippi Housing Institute and a licensed residential builder, McClendon also is a member of the Home Builder's Association of Jackson, the Home Builder's Association of Mississippi, and the National Association of Home Builders.

A long-time resident of Mississippi,

McClendon grew up in Pearl, and received his associate’s degree from Hinds Community College.

Because McClendon grows a business on his home turf, he knows first-hand what his customers need and expect for service. His accessibility to the community allows for lines of direct communication between him and his customers.

When not remodeling, McClendon’s hobbies include hunting and fishing in Mississippi's outdoors. Married with two sons, he resides in Brandon.

Hosea L. Minnieweather Jr. Noven Pharmaceuticals

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INONA NATIVE Hosea Minnieweather is a Sales Specialist with Noven Pharmaceuticals. In 2014, Minnieweather was named Noven’s “Sales Representative of the Year,” and has consistently ranked in the Top 5 percent of the company since he joined three years ago.

With Noven, Minnieweather specializes in the fields of obstetrics and gynecology, and offers FDA-approved options for treating menopausal symp-

toms.

A former Mississippi Valley State University All-SWAC football player, Minnieweather earned his MBA from Belhaven University in 2014.

An active member of the Pilgrim’s Rest Missionary Baptist Church in Madison, he serves as a Sunday School teacher and deacon-in-training.

Minnieweather is an active member of the Germantown High School Band Boosters, where he mans the concession stand grills during football season.

In his spare time, Minnieweather enjoys watching college and pro football.

Mississippi Business Journal

Mississippi Business Journal

2015 TOP 50 UNDER 40 >> 31

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Erica Moore Pearl River Resort

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HEN ERICA Clemons Moore arrived in Philadelphia as Director of Public Relations for Pearl River Resort, she was a solo act.

Since then, the Meridian native has built a well-rounded, four-person PR team that has quickly become one of the most efficient departments in the company.

In the past three years, Moore has generated national media attention for the resort, from NBC’s The Biggest

Loser to ABC’s Good Morning America.

She’s grateful for other PR professionals that have paved the way for her.

Prior to earning her Master’s degree in Public Relations at the University of Southern Mississippi, Moore received a Bachelor’s in Communication at Mississippi State University.

Active in the Neshoba County United Way, she also volunteers at Open Arms feeding program, where Moore helps serve plates and cleans between seatings.

In her spare time, she enjoys reading on her Kindle.

Trustmark Salutes The Top 50 Under 40 Business Leaders

WIER BOERNER ALLIN CONGRATULATES

MICHAEL BOERNER FOR BEING CHOSEN AS ONE OF MISSISSIPPI BUSINESS JOURNAL’S

TOP 50 UNDER 40 People you trust. Advice that works.

Member FDIC

trustmark.com

2906 North State Street, Suite 106 Jackson, MS 39216 601-321-9107 www.wbaarchitecture.com

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Kimberly Nastasi Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce

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S CHIEF EXECUTIVE Officer of the Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce, Kimberly Nastasi is charged with implementing a long-range strategic plan to enhance the image of the Coast business community with other state regions.

A former adjunct Communication Professor at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, Nastasi led the Chamber to a coveted four-star accreditation with the United States Chamber

of Commerce in 2014, ranking in the top 3 percent of chambers nationwide.

Nastasi, a Utah native, earned her Bachelor’s from the University of Southern Mississippi, as well as her Master’s.

She serves as an Ambassador for the Mississippi Gulf Resort Classic PGA event and is a volunteer with Habitat for Humanity, United Way of South Mississippi and the American Red Cross.

Characterized as determined, Nastasi enjoys traveling, working out, reading and cooking in her off time.

Marc Petro

TOP 10 FINALIST

Community Bank

M

ARC PETRO wasted no time getting on a career fast track. At the age of 24, Petro became the youngest branch manager for Community Bank at the company’s original location in metropolitan Jackson.

Today, the Leland native is the senior commercial lender at Community Bank’s Old Canton Road branch.

He currently manages a $32 million loan portfolio and is responsible for more than 50 percent of loans at the

branch. Petro launched his banking career in 2002 upon his graduation from Mississippi State University.

He draws inspiration for a positive work ethic from his mother, who worked in the Leland School District for 37 years and retired as Assistant Superintendent.

Active in several professional organizations, Petro is a member of the Ridgeland Chamber of Commerce and supports Our Daily Bread Ministries.

An avid Mississippi State Bulldogs fan, Petro enjoys spending time with his wife attending MSU sporting events.

Mississippi Business Journal

www.msbusiness.com

2015 TOP 50 UNDER 40 >> 33

Marlena Powell Pickering Baker Donelson

M

ARLENA P. Pickering is an attorney with Jackson law firm Baker Donelson, where she is a member of the firm’s State Public Policy Group. She has a broad practice, advising clients on issues related to public law matters, airports, procurements and government contracts, affordable housing, insurance regulations, and commercial and real estate transactions.

Pickering also has an advocacy background, having handled complex com-

mercial disputes, premises liability, personal injury, wrongful death and public construction cases in state and federal court.

Before entering law school, Pickering taught social studies in the Jackson Public Schools District. In law school, she served as the special projects editor of the Mississippi College Law Review and was a member of Mississippi College School of Law’s Moot Court Board.

In her leisure time, Pickering enjoys running road races, playing softball, home decorating and singing.

Congratulations Scott Spivey, Executive Director of the Mississippi Home Corporation, named Mississippi Business Journal’s “Under 40 Business Person of the Year.”

Alabama

Fl o r i d a

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Mississippi

8 00-762 -242 6

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FREE BACKGROUND INFORMATION AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST. No representation is made that the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers. Contacts: Scott E. Andress, Managing Partner, Jackson, MS (601) 961-9900; Ricky J. Cox, Managing Partner, Gulfport, MS (228) 864-9900.

Congratulations

Mandi Arinder

from the Rankin County Chamber Board of Directors and Staff for being named one of Mississippi Business Journal’s

Top 50 Under 40 www.rankinchamber.com

Congratulates

LILLI EVANS BASS

for being named to the Mississippi Business Journal’s

Top 50 Under 40 2015

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Mississippi Business Journal

Alex Purvis Bradley Arant

F

OR ALEX PURVIS, facilitating resolution in the best interests of the client is job one for an attorney. Purvis is a partner with the Jackson office of the Bradley Arant law firm, one of the largest in the South.

His main practice areas include complex insurance coverage matters, construction disputes and product liability.

Purvis has experience in several federal and state courts, including Mississippi, Alabama and Tennessee.

At 38, Purvis became the youngest

member of Bradley Arant’s board, and now represents over 30 lawyers in the Jackson office.

The Atlanta native graduated magna cum laude from the Mississippi College School of Law. Active in the metro Jackson community, Purvis is a board member of the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, St. Andrew’s School Alumni Association, and serves on the Usher Committee at St. James Episcopal Church.

When he’s not gardening, Purvis enjoys playing golf in his leisure hours.

GOOD NEWS IS WORTH REPEATING! Framed Article Articles are reformatted to fit on either one or two pages with Mississippi Business Journal masthead on the top of the page. Article size is 8.5” x 11”.

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Matthew Edward Renick

Mississippi Business Journal

TOP 10 FINALIST

Blackledge Emulsions

A

S A YOUNG civil engineer on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Matt Renick’s professional life was changed

by Hurricane Katrina.

Though he faced grim challenges like all Gulf Coast residents, Renick says he grew professionally in many ways.

Now the Vice-President of Operations for Gulfport-based Blackledge Emulsions, the former DuPont associate is responsible for the operation of nine asphalt production and distribution facilities in five states.

Renick received his Master of Science degree from Mississippi State University and worked closely with the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality as a student.

Active in the Gulf Coast community, he serves as co-chair of the Boys and Girls Club, and is a member of the Gulf Coast Symphony and Pathway 2 Possibilities.

Born and reared in Mississippi, Renick harbors a strong desire to make his native state a better place. An outdoors enthusiast, he enjoys hunting and fishing.

Justin Rhodes Mississippi Baptist Health Systems

F

ROM THE TENDER age of 12, Justin Rhodes has known hard work. Before he was a teenager, the Jackson native owned 50 percent of his family’s beef cattle operation, where he learned a solid small business foundation.

Today, Rhodes is the Director of Clinic Operations for Mississippi Baptist Health Systems. He is responsible for administering overall practice management functions for Baptist’s multi-specialty network.

Prior to joining Baptist, Rhodes served as a manager for Nissan North America in the Canton and Smyrna, Tennessee plants.

The Arkansas State University graduate, who earned his MBA from Mississippi College, has been associated with several awards over the years, including one from the Newsouth Research Group. Professionally, Rhodes is active with the Medical Group Management Association of Mississippi. In his leisure time, Rhodes enjoys coaching youth soccer.

TOP 10 FINALIST

Mississippi Business Journal

www.msbusiness.com

Harry Dewitt Ruffin III Trustmark

T

HE FACT THAT his father serves as his role model isn’t the least bit clichéd to Harry “Witt” Ruffin. The Trustmark Bank vice president for corporate banking truly admires his dad’s inate ability to balance work and a home life.

As an executive for one of the state’s largest financial institutions, Ruffin is responsible for developing and cultivating corporate banking relationships.

Before he joined Trustmark, the Birmingham, Ala., native worked for

BancorpSouth and Colonial Bank.

An Auburn University graduate, Ruffin earned his MBA at the University of Southern Mississippi.

He believes the best way to make a difference in the world is to “be diligent and don’t get discouraged.”

A board member with the YMCA of Metro Jackson, Ruffin also is a member of the Phoenix Club and Rotary Club of North Jackson.

The new father of a son born last December, Ruffin enjoys playing golf and watching Auburn Tigers football.

Abby Thompson Camgian Microsystems

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ITH AN industrial engineering degree and experience working with entrepreneurs, Abby Thompson’s path to becoming a marketing communications manager made sense.

At Starkville-based Camgian Microsystems, Thompson is responsible for all marketing and branding related to the company. Prior to joining Camgian, the Alabama native served as coordinator for the Mississippi State University Entrepreneur Center and managed the

Jack Hatcher Entrepreneurship Certificate Program, teaching engineering students basic business skills.

During her senior year at MSU, Thompson was voted the 2010 Outstanding Industrial & Systems Engineering Student of the Year.

One of Thompson’s passions is Reclaimed Project, which she and a few friends founded in 2012. The program provides financial assistance to over 25 families adopted from six countries.

When she has time, Thompson enjoys traveling abroad and following MSU athletics.

2015 TOP 50 UNDER 40 >> 37

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Mississippi Business Journal

Bridget Young Townsend City of Jackson

B

RIDGET TOWNSEND is the Director of Youth Initiatives with the City of Jackson. In her role as director, Townsend manages youth and educational programs within the city, developing collaborative relationships with other governmental agencies, non-profits and faith-based agencies.

The Jackson native has also worked as a recruiter for the Department of Homeland Security (TSA) and program manager for Junior Achievement.

Townsend received her bachelor’s degree from Mississippi College and Master’s Degree from Troy State

University.

One of her most significant professional accomplishments is coordinating Jackson’s Annual Back to School event, which serves over 5,000 Jackson Public Schools students.

A board member of the Boys and Girls Club and Alignment Jackson, Townsend also serves on the high school committee, career fair planning committee and often volunteers on special projects within the city.

In her leisure time, Townsend enjoys shopping, traveling, mentoring young people and being the mother and teacher of life to her son Brian and daughter Chayse.

Trent Townsend Next Step Group

L

AUNCHING HIS own company before the age of 30 was a daunting task for Trent Townsend. But the Chief Executive Officer of Next Step Group takes extreme pride that he’s been able to grow his company to 15 employees, and generated over $10 million in revenue during the 2014 fiscal year alone.

In addition to his role as CEO, Townsend serves as engineer/technical support manager and has authored innovative software that helps manage

customer relations and HR matters.

Following graduation from Mississippi State University, the Columbus native worked for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at the Engineer Research and Development Center in Vicksburg.

A former Eagle Scout, Townsend says marrying his wife and having a son together are his greatest personal accomplishments. Townsend plays the alto saxophone for his church orchestra, and enjoys water sports, hunting and fishing when he has time.

TOP 10 FINALIST

Mississippi Business Journal

www.msbusiness.com

2015 TOP 50 UNDER 40 >> 39

Justin M. Turner TurnerCare, LLC

H

IS LIFE’S MOTTO sums up Justin Turner’s purpose-filled mission: “In life, you can either be part of the problem, or be part of the solution.”

Turner is the CEO of TurnerCare, LLC and is a dedicated to improving the health of Mississippians. He received his undergraduate degree from Jackson State University and his medical degree from Meharry Medical College in Tennessee.

He led research geared to address health disparities in Mississippi, and presented findings at the national con-

ference for the American Association of Medical Colleges.

He is a member of the American Medical Association, the American College of Physicians and was on the board of the Mississippi Medical Surgical Association.

Honors include the 2013 Young Influentials of Jackson by BOOM magazine; the 2014 Image Award in Medicine by Phi Beta Sigma, Mu Sigma Chapter; and the 2014 Mississippi Business Journal’s HealthCare Heroes.

He also serves as director of the New Jerusalem Health Care Ministry.

Alison Tyler

TOP 10 FINALIST

HORNE CPAs

A

STRONG BELIEVER in positive thinking, Alison Tyler is the Director of Human Resources with HORNE CPAs. Tyler revels in helping fellow Mississippians develop professionally, and she is encouraged that health and wellness programs are being implemented in the corporate world.

Her specific areas of expertise include talent management, health and wellness program management, benefits and payroll.

Prior to joining HORNE, the

University of Southern Colorado graduate served as Director of Human Resources with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Mississippi, and Staffing Coordinator for TempStaff and ExecuStaff in Jackson.

An active member of Colonial Heights Baptist Church, Tyler also volunteers her time with the Salvation Army, Gateway and the Mustard Seed.

Additionally, she is an ongoing blood donor with Mississippi Blood Services.

A wife and mother of two boys, Tyler enjoys watching SEC football, decorating and reading autobiographies.

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Nathan Wells Chief of Staff, Rep. Philip Gunn

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ATHAN WELLS serves as Chief of Staff for Mississippi House of Representatives Speaker Philip Gunn. As liaison between the House and the Governor’s office, Wells manages the Speaker’s staff and helps formulate policies and procedures.

Prior to being appointed Chief of Staff, the Mississippi College graduate was a partner with Winning Edge Communications, where he managed successful direct mail political campaigns for U.S. senators Roger Wicker

and Thad Cochran, along with numerous legislative campaigns in Mississippi, North Carolina and Tennessee.

In 2014, Wells bought ownership into the iconic Brent’s Drugs, one of the Jackson locations utilized for the Academy Award-winning film, “The Help.”

An active member of Redeemer Presbyterian Church, Wells also serves as commissioner for the state’s Bicentennial Commission and as a member of the Hinds County Republican Party Executive Committee.

Johannah B. Williams Hinds Community College

J

OHANNAH WILLIAMS became Chair of the Chemistry, Physics and Computer Science Department at Hinds Community College sooner than she expected.

When Williams arrived on the Raymond campus in 2004, she had no experience as a professor but told herself she’d be department chair within 10 years.

In her eighth year at the school, the New Albany native attained her lofty goal. Williams completed work on her

doctorate in higher education administration at the University of Southern Mississippi after receiving a Master’s in Computer and Information Science from Alcorn State University. She has been accorded several honors over the years, including being chosen one of BOOM magazine’s Top 10 Young Influential in 2013 and a “Best Professor” finalist by the Best of Jackson last year.

Learning new languages is a hobby for Williams, and she has studied abroad in Costa Rica on two occasions.

Mississippi Business Journal

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Mississippi Business Journal

The 2014 Class Joseph B. Babb............................................................ Eaton, Babb & Smith Jason Wilton Bailey ................................................................ Jones Walker Michael Bentley ............................ Bradley Arant Boult and Cummings Elizabeth Mills Boone ..................................................Watson and Jones Kylie B. Boring..........................Tupelo Convention and Visitors Bureau Katrina S. Brown................................ Currie Johnson Griffin and Myers David B. Burt .............................................................. Newton County Bank Chara J. Clancy ...................................... Huntington Ingalls Shipbuilding Jason Cook.................................................................... Cook Medical Supply Steve DeRusso.............................................. Ouachita Independent Bank Mitchell O. Driskell III.............................................................. Daniel Coker Daniel C. Elliott ........................................................................BancorpSouth Edgar A. Flores ......................................................Baptist Health Systems Breck R. Hines ..................................................................Duckworth Realty LaKeysha Greer Isaac ..................................Cosmic Simmons & Brown Alyson Bustamante Jones ....................................................Butler Snow Kenneth L. Jones ................................................................................LapCorp Robert D. King Jr. ..................................................The Koerber Company Kimberla M. Little ................................................Regions Financial Corp Josh Mabus ......................................................................The Mabus Agency Chris Madison ..............................................................................HORNE, LLP Brandon D. Meeks ................................................................ Meeks Agency Nathan Moore ................................................Mississippi State University Austin Morgan ............................................T.L. Wallace Construction Co. Anna M. Neel ..............................................................................Neel-Schaffer Jamie D. Osbirn ..........................................First American National Bank Tianna H. Raby ..........................................................................Forman Perry Ryan Revere ............................Smith, Phillips, Mitchell, Scott & Nowak Gerold Smith ............................................................Titan Broadcasting Co. Ryan P. Steiner ....................................................................................Terracon John Stolarski ....................................................Allred Architectural Group Micajah P. Sturdivant IV................................................MMI Hotel Group Dana C. Terry ......................................Mississippi College School of Law Katy Tillman......................................................................Southern Ag Credit Jerry L. Toney ........................................................Cadence Financial Corp.

James Russell Turley........................................................Community Bank Vince Vavrunek ..................................................................................SERVPRO Chad Wallace ..................................................................Belhaven University Sara Harrison White ..........................................Trustmark National Bank Liz Young ..........................................................American Heart Association

TO GET MORE information, read honoree biographies, view banquet pictures or order a magazine of last year’s Under 40 Class, visit msbusiness.com, and click “events”

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Mississippi Business Journal

About 400 filled the banquet room at the Hilton Hotel on County Line Road on April 24 for the 2015 Top 50 Under 40 awards luncheon. Performing in the

The Luncheon The Mississippi Business Journal’s annual Top 50 Under 40 luncheon is one of the highlights of the state’s business community. This year, nearly 400 business people and their families, friends and coworkers gathered at the Hilton Hotel on County Line Road in Jackson to celebrate the best and brightest young people and leaders of the state. For a slides show of photos, visit http://msbusiness.com/ events/top-40-event-slideshow/.

Honoree Gwendolyne Ballard (center, standing) of C Spire.

All luncheon photos by Dery

Mississippi Business Journal

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2015 TOP 50 UNDER 40 >> 43

foreground is Raphael Semmes and his band.

Honoree Alison Tyler (ďŹ rst row, left) of HORNE CPAs.

yll Stegall of Stegall Imagery

Honoree Foley Holditch (right, seated) of Thyme.

44 << 2015 TOP 50 UNDER 40

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Honoree Johannah B. Williams (left) of Hinds Community College.

Honoree Madeline Brown (standing, center) of Fisher Brown Bottrell Insurance.

Honoree William B. Dickson Jr. of Jackson Municipal Airport Authority.

Honoree Marc Petro (seated, center) of Community Bank.

Honoree Tonyatta Hairston, (seated, center) of EnVision Eye Care.

Mississippi Business Journal

Mississippi Business Journal

www.msbusiness.com

2015 TOP 50 UNDER 40 >> 45

Honorees Marlena Powell Pickering (third from left) of Baker Donelson and Monica Davis Joiner (second from right) of the City of Jackson.

Honoree Julie Jarrell Gresham of Huntington Ingalls Industries.

Andrew Hart of Comcast Business, who provided opening remarks.

MBJ Publisher Alan Turner.

Candace Simmons of Regions leads the Pledge of Allegiance.

Honoree Mandi Arinder (right) of Rankin County Chamber of Commerce.

Twenty-fourth Annual

Tell Us Who

STANDS OUT

Outstanding Mississippi Business Leaders Under 40

I Nominate: Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;`>Ă&#x152;i\Ă&#x160; ­ Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x192;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x160;LiĂ&#x160;>vĂ&#x152;iĂ&#x20AC;Ă&#x160; iViÂ&#x201C;LiĂ&#x20AC;Ă&#x160;ÂŁ]Ă&#x160;ÂŁÂ&#x2122;Ă&#x2021;xÂŽ Company: Position: Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x192;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;iĂ&#x192;Ă&#x192;Ă&#x160; ``Ă&#x20AC;iĂ&#x192;Ă&#x192;\Ă&#x160; City:

State:

Phone:

Zip:

Fax:

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Â&#x201C;>Â&#x2C6;Â?\Ă&#x160;

In Business and the Community Nominated by: Company: ``Ă&#x20AC;iĂ&#x192;Ă&#x192;\Ă&#x160; City:

State:

Phone:

Zip:

Fax:

Â&#x201C;>Â&#x2C6;Â?\Ă&#x160; Your relationship to nominee:

We accept Top xäĂ&#x160;1nder {ä Nominations throughout the year.

You will receive...the entry requirements as soon as your nomination is entered. Final and complete entry ÂŤ>VÂ&#x17D;>}iĂ&#x192;Ă&#x160; must be received by no later than >Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x2022;>Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x160;ÂŁĂ&#x2021;]Ă&#x160;Ă&#x201C;ä£x.

Please return to:

Fax: Ă&#x2C6;ä£Â&#x2021;Ă&#x17D;Ă&#x2C6;{Â&#x2021;£ääĂ&#x2021; UĂ&#x160;Online: www.msbusiness.com Mail: Top {ä] ] Ă&#x201C;ää N. Congress -Ă&#x152;°] Suite {ää] >VÂ&#x17D;Ă&#x192;Â&#x153;Â&#x2DC;] - Ă&#x17D;Â&#x2122;Ă&#x201C;ä£ More info: Ă&#x2C6;ä£Â&#x2021;Ă&#x17D;Ă&#x2C6;{Â&#x2021;£äääĂ&#x160;or events@msbusiness.com

! "

Class of 2015 Front row, from left: Justin M. Turner, Matthew Edward Renick, Trent Townsend, Farrah Graham Kennedy, Alison Tyler, Julie Jarrel Gresham, Scott Spivey, Bridget Lowery, Jamie Higdon, Quentin Brewer, Justin Rhodes and Marc Petro.

Middle row: Shane McLendon, Harry DeWitt Ruffin III, Jason S. Condon, Lilli Evans Bass, Brandy Kennedy Garrett, Abby Thompson, Foley Holditch, Johannah Wiliams, Erica Moore, Bridget Young Townsend, Monica Davis Joiner, Gwendolyne Ballard, Jennifer M. Childs, H. Barber Boone, Beau Cole, Carter Burns, Toyatta Hairston, Laura P. Johns, Mandi Arinder, Stephen Griner, Kodi Hobbs.

Back row: Nicki Johnson Reeves, Marshall J. Eleuterius, James W. McIngvale, Mason Greene, Mauricka DeVon McKenzie Sr., Madeleine Brown, Brax Clark, Nathan Wells, Michael Warren Boerner, Marlena Powell Pickering, Preston H. Lee III, Jeremiah Dumas, Aaron Lacey, Alex Purvis, William Dickson, Hosea Minnieweather.

Not pictured: Jason Manley, Kimberly Nastasi.